The winning word was a tricky one: M-O-U-S-S-E.
Hearing the definition of the final word in the district spelling bee gave Emanuel Rodriguez a chance at correctly spell the culinary dish made of whipped egg and cream as opposed to “moose,” a large animal with antlers.
Emanuel, a 4th grade student at Merrifield Elementary School, remained poised and won first place in the 2022 Duncanville ISD Spelling Bee. Now he advances to the Dallas County spelling bee, which is scheduled for next month.
Emanuel’s parents, siblings and principal, Dr. Tanya Jones, joined him on stage at the end of the ceremony to celebrate his championship win.
The second place winner was Diego Requena, a 7th grade student at Reed Middle School.
Third place resulted in a tie between Ethan Whitaker, a 4th grade student at Bilhartz Elementary School, and Jaiden Johnson, a 4th grade student at Alexander Elementary School.
All of the students who participated in the district spelling bee finished their school spelling bee champions, or the student was the runner-up and appointed as an alternate. Emanuel continues to the Dallas County spelling bee, and has an opportunity to advance to the Dallas regional spelling bee.